High School Counselor - Aug 2026

Dubai American Academy (DAA) is recognized as GEMS Education’s leading American school, offering an exceptional world-class education from Kindergarten through Grade 12, along with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. DAA has consistently received an Outstanding rating from the KHDA since 2011, known for its academic excellence, diverse international community, and state-of-the-art facilities.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic High School Counselor to join our dedicated team starting in August 2026.

This position offers an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about education and committed to fostering the academic success of our students.

Job Purpose:

To provide and facilitate academic, personal, social, and emotional counseling for students.

Job Scope:

You will be tasked with designing and implementing a counseling program that aligns with the school’s goals, supporting the student body to help them excel in all facets of their lives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Embrace and promote the values and standards of excellence as defined by the GEMS Core Values.
• Establish procedures and schedules to offer students academic, personal, social, emotional, and psychological counseling.
• Manage the transition process for students.
• Develop strategies to secure external support for students encountering personal challenges and emotional difficulties.
• Work alongside the senior management team to create experiences and activities that contribute to students' overall growth, nurturing responsibility, leadership, teamwork, and other personal and social skills.
• Maintain detailed student records concerning progress, achievements, extracurricular activities, and interests, while tracking student development through all accessible data and evidence.
• Implement proactive measures and protocols to combat bullying.
• Administer appropriate testing programs to evaluate student aptitude and achievement.
• Create a system to quickly inform parents regarding any issues related to academic performance, schoolwork, or behavioral concerns.
• Ensure adherence to GEMS policies, procedures, and codes of conduct at all times.
• Be willing to extend effort and commitment beyond standard working hours when necessary.
• Engage in staff meetings and participate in committees as needed.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned by direct or dotted line managers/supervisors.

The ideal candidate will have:

• A Bachelor of Education degree or an initial degree complemented by a relevant qualification in psychology or counseling.
• A minimum of one year of experience in a school environment or previous experience in a counseling role within educational settings.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a high level of empathy.
• The ability to establish trusting relationships with students.
• An understanding of the significance of confidentiality and discretion.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• A commitment to fostering strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.
• A strong desire to improve their practice and deliver outstanding counseling experiences for students.
• Availability to start in August 2026.

Next Steps:

• Candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted regarding the next steps in the hiring process.
• Interviews will be scheduled as soon as possible, conducted both in-person and online. Please note that this is by invitation only.

Join us in shaping the future of education at Dubai American Academy. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on our students' lives and empower them to become exceptional, globally-ready individuals.

GEMS Education is committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of all its students and staff. A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is required for all appointments. Apply via the WhatSchool platform.